Browsing Category: Yamaha

Yamaha has played a defining role in the development of the modern side-by-side. The company helped transform the market with the original Rhino, expanded into utility and recreational trail machines with the Viking and Wolverine, and later introduced the driver-focused YXZ1000R sport UTV.

Today, UTVGuide.net’s Yamaha coverage includes new-model announcements, specifications, buyer’s guides, first-drive reviews, long-term tests, project builds, racing news and the history of Yamaha’s most influential side-by-sides.

Yamaha Wolverine Adventure UTVs

The Yamaha Wolverine family is designed for riders who want trail capability, predictable handling and practical utility in one platform. Wolverine models range from compact two-seat machines for tight trails to the more powerful RMAX family of two- and four-seat adventure UTVs.

At the top of the lineup, the Wolverine RMAX 1000 combines a 999cc parallel-twin engine with Yamaha’s Ultramatic continuously variable transmission, On-Command four-wheel drive and long-travel suspension. Buyers can explore the complete Yamaha Wolverine RMAX family, compare the different RMAX2 1000 trim levels, or read our Yamaha Wolverine RMAX4 buyer’s guide.

UTVGuide.net has also tested Yamaha Wolverine models on demanding terrain. Our coverage includes a Wolverine RMAX4 1000 first-drive review, a long-term RMAX4 build and review, and extensive testing of the compact Yamaha Wolverine X2.

Yamaha Viking Utility Side-by-Sides

The Yamaha Viking family emphasizes work capability, passenger room and drivetrain durability. Available in three- and six-passenger configurations, the Viking is suited to ranch work, hunting, property maintenance and recreational trail use. Read our original Yamaha Viking review for a closer look at the platform that succeeded the Rhino as Yamaha’s primary utility side-by-side.

History of the Yamaha Rhino

The Yamaha Rhino did not invent the side-by-side, but it redefined what a side-by-side could be. Its combination of four-wheel-drive utility, compact dimensions and recreational capability helped establish the modern UTV market and inspired a rapidly growing aftermarket.

Explore the complete history of the Yamaha Rhino, from the 2004 Rhino 660 through its influence on trail riding, dunes, racing and custom UTV development. You can also look inside the original Yamaha Rhino 660 media kit for factory specifications, launch pricing and Yamaha’s introduction of the vehicle.

Yamaha YXZ1000R Sport UTV

The Yamaha YXZ1000R brought a distinctly different approach to the sport UTV market. Its high-revving three-cylinder engine and geared transmission created a direct connection between the driver and the drivetrain at a time when most competing sport side-by-sides relied on belt-driven CVTs.

Although production has ended, the YXZ1000R remains an important performance and racing platform. Revisit our original Yamaha YXZ1000R review, see how the machine performed in our 2019 YXZ1000R Glamis dune review, and follow its final championship season in Owen VanEperen’s Yamaha YXZ1000R championship farewell.

Yamaha Side-by-Side News, Reviews and History

Browse the latest Yamaha articles below for current model information, comparisons, accessories, project builds, racing coverage and historical features. Yamaha has announced that in-house U.S. side-by-side production will end after the 2026 model year, but the company plans to continue developing multi-purpose side-by-sides manufactured outside its Newnan, Georgia facility. Read our coverage of Yamaha’s revised side-by-side product strategy for more information.